High-stakes trial: Camille yaké yé and others face humanitarian fund fraud charges

Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso – The Economic and Financial Hub Prosecutor’s Office held a significant press conference on Friday, November 28, 2025, in Ouagadougou. The briefing provided updates on the ongoing investigation into alleged public funds embezzlement within the Ministry of Humanitarian Action and National Solidarity, alongside a comprehensive review of the judicial year 2024-2025 activities.

Regarding the prominent case known as “Camille Yaké Yé and others,” the prosecution confirmed the conclusion of investigations. These inquiries centered on serious accusations including the misappropriation of public funds, illicit enrichment, forgery of public documents, and money laundering.

An order from the investigating judge, dated November 17, 2025, has formally referred eight individuals to the specialized judgment chamber of the Ecofi hub. This group notably includes former Minister Laure Zongo/Hien, along with various current and former employees of the ministry, highlighting the breadth of the judicial probe.

The charges primarily relate to the management of a dedicated fund intended for acquiring vital provisions for internally displaced persons (IDPs). Investigations have unearthed concerning practices such as fictitious expenditures, systematic overbilling, and the illicit personal diversion of fuel resources, underscoring severe deficiencies in accountability.

This current legal action represents a continuation of prior judicial efforts, notably following an initial phase that led to the conviction of Amidou Tiégnan and several others. Their appeal judgment largely affirmed the original court decision, setting a precedent for robust anti-corruption enforcement.

Also read 👉Humanitarian action ministry fund misappropriation case: suspects referred, assets seized

The much-anticipated trial is officially scheduled to take place during the session from December 12 to 22, 2025. Despite an appeal lodged by one of the defendants, the prosecution firmly considers this move a dilatory tactic. The office reiterated its steadfast commitment to ensuring a timely judgment, emphasizing the critical importance of transparency and restoring public confidence in the judicial system.

Turning to the broader performance of the Economic and Financial Hub, the review highlighted significant achievements. Between October 2024 and July 2025, the hub processed 80 distinct cases involving 229 accused individuals, culminating in 176 convictions.

The financial impact of these judicial actions is substantial: fines imposed exceeded 15 billion FCFA, while damages awarded surpassed 2.8 billion FCFA. Asset seizures included 63 real estate properties, various vehicles, and 243 million FCFA in cash. Furthermore, out-of-court settlements facilitated the recovery of over 15.6 billion FCFA, directly benefiting the public treasury.

See also 👉Humanitarian funds embezzlement trial: Amidou Tiégnan sentenced to 11 years in prison

Looking ahead to the 2025-2026 judicial year, the prosecution announced an intensified crackdown on economic crime. The strategic focus will be on accelerating legal procedures and optimizing asset recovery. The office affirmed its unwavering resolve to safeguard public finances and to rigorously sanction all forms of malfeasance, irrespective of an individual’s rank or position within society.

press brief